Gary Williams, who owns ‘Hair By Gary Williams Ltd’ on Mill Lane, has been hairdressing for more than 47 years.

He moved to the Mill Street premises in July, 1985, after setting up his first business on Churchwallgate in 1973, with his wife Lesley working alongside him.

Grandfather-of-three Gary - with the family’s newest addition Matilda arriving just three weeks ago - said he loves working and said the businesses longevity is thanks to loyal customers.

He said: "I still enjoy it.

“It’s changed a lot as you could imagine, perming is coming back into fashion with some of the younger ones now.”

Gary, 60, who lives in Broken Cross and employs another stylist, Denise Hayes, said: “I just want to say thank you to all my loyal customers. It’s a real achievement being in the same shop for 30 years.”

He added: “I have some very loyal customers. My auntie Marian Downhill is my oldest customer - she’s 93 and has been coming to me since I was 18, but I think that’s partly due to family loyalty too.”

Hair by Gary Williams Ltd, on Mill lane, is open Tuesdays to Saturdays.